The Back Beliefs Questionnaire

The Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ, 1996) was designed, developed and validated by Symonds et al. [1,2] to evaluate individuals’ beliefs regarding the impact of low back trouble (LBT). The BBQ examines psychosocial factors that can prolong sickness absence, recovery periods and disability due to negative perceptions of LBT. By identifying and signposting opportunities to address these negative beliefs, the BBQ is used to support the reduction of LBT-related absences from work. It can also be used to measure the efficacy of education-based interventions, leading to enhanced employee well-being and productivity. The BBQ is a concise, 9-item, unidimensional Patient-Reported Outcome Measure (or PROM) designed to evaluate individuals’ beliefs about the consequences of LBT. Its primary objective is to assess individuals’ perceptions of the inevitable consequences of LBT, highlighting beliefs that may be counterproductive and which directly impact recovery and disability related to LBT. Identifying negative or self-limiting beliefs helps challenge misconceptions and common myths (e.g. There is no real treatment for back trouble; Back trouble means long periods of time off work; Back trouble means periods of pain for the rest of your life). In contrast, positive (well-informed) attitudes about LBT can lead to quicker recovery times. By addressing these beliefs, practitioners and organisations can improve employee well-being and productivity while reducing sickness absence and associated costs.